A long weekend in Algiers A gift in the Mediterranean

After a long, enthusiastic and painful history, what remains is that Algiers is a shared certainty. Who would want to do without the White City? No one. Such is the fate of certain cities, dedicated to admiration by an exceptional location. The Bay of Algiers is often bathed in sunlight - one of the most radiant in the world. Its iconic Casbah is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It has even made its way into Haussmannian buildings. And it caught Le Corbusier’s eye. Its ties to modernity are closer than you might think. In France, some post-war reconstructions owe it a great deal. A few kilometres along the coast, there are major ancient sites. The magic is not from the past. Neither is the Mediterranean civilisation. We should undoubtedly draw inspiration from it. In any case, Algiers stands out for its youthful spirit, a certain freedom of tone and manner. It is pleasant to live in, curious and inventive. Of course, certain codes are observed here, but where are there none? It is in relation to them that liberties are identified. And what grilled sardines!

Your hotel in Algiers

It stands at the northern corner of the Botanical Garden of Hamma. A large, modern hotel that provides high-standard service - something that more well-known establishments may sometimes struggle to offer. Everything is clear from the spacious patio: cosmopolitan style, with just the right touch of oriental influence. The rooms offer impeccable classic hotel style. Well-appointed, comfortable. Sheer curtains, drapes, satin cushions, glamour sketched out. A subtle 1970s vibe is everywhere: precisely what is coming back into favour. Three restaurants satisfy every appetite: Maghrebi, Italian, and international. On the plates, everything is done with care. Naturally, preference is given to the first, which wholly benefits from its rooting. Another great feature is a large swimming pool, on a terrace and half indoors, half outdoors. An all-weather pool, with its surroundings serving as a solarium. In short, its location, service and facilities make your accommodation in Algiers a superb base camp.

Already scheduled

Every day, a necessary visit, which still leaves you plenty of time to pursue your own exploration.
Alger Like a local - Nothing is prepared in advance. A meeting is arranged with your friend for the day. As soon as he arrives, we have a chat with he who knows Algiers like the back of his hand: our wishes, interests, questions and abilities. You first, him second. The idea is to let the city itself respond to your expectations - through your guide. From, let’s say, Didouche Mourad Street, formerly Michelet Street, to Martyrs’ Square, there’s plenty to do, Algerian style. An experience that reveals all the contemporary vibrancy of the White City. Today, you are visiting both its people and the city itself.

Casbah in private - this is the medina, the traditional Arab city. On which the Turks have left a lasting impression. With your guide, you set out to discover a city that is both famous and mysterious. Partly hidden, its cultural riches are not put on display. An interior is what gives it value and its power to fascinate. Mosques, Ottoman palaces, hammams, and houses with porticos can be glimpsed before you even approach them, and even the artisans’ workshops - ceramic artists, painters, coppersmiths, carpenters, etc. - doors are opened to you. However, the Casbah has managed to remain popular and full of character. The National Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions provides valuable insight into what used to happen (and still happens) behind walls.

Tipaza in private - You are accompanied by a new private guide for a visit to this important coastal archaeological site, two hours’ drive south-west of Algiers. A port founded by the Phoenicians in the 5th century BC, which was successively Punic, Numidian and Roman to varying degrees, then converted to Christianity, and later to Byzantium. The ancient city is now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The early Christian remains are significant - most notably the Basilica of Saint Salsa from the 4th century - but temples, basilicas, a forum, a theatre, and villas from the earlier period together form an impressive ensemble. Within the UNESCO-listed area, the Qabr al-Rûmiyya, the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, is an imposing structure, possibly dating from the 1st century, either before or after the Common Era. Today, its function remains enigmatic. All of this is explored in detail, so when lunchtime arrives, everyone is famished. Grilled fish takes pride of place! The day is also an opportunity to enjoy the Mediterranean and spectacular scenery.